The Japanese Language Program

We use Genki, a highly acclaimed and best-selling
textbook used at NC State University, UNC Chapel Hill, Duke
University, and many other colleges
[list].
Genki's easy-to-follow grammar explanations and accompanying CD-ROM
help students develop Japanese skills at their own pace
[other
characteristics].

Students in youth courses will have a smooth transition to college
Japanese courses. Those interested in manga and anime
can develop basic skills to understand Japanese spoken by their
favorite characters.

We also offer a course to prepare students for the Japanese Language
Proficiency Test, JLPT
[more details]. JLPT
certificates serve as acknowledgement of qualification and offer
various advantages such as preferential treatment at companies.

Programs and Scholarships

Monbusho Scholarship Program

Japan's Ministry of Education also provides scholarships for
undergraduate study of the Japanese language and culture and graduate
research in a variety of fields. North Carolina scholars can obtain
additional information and application materials from the Consulate
General of Japan in Atlanta.

Japan-America Student Conference

Each year students from Japan and the United States unite in a
student-managed 30-day forum, in alternating countries, for nearly 80
students from the U.S. and Japan to discuss a wide variety of topics
that are important to both nations. For more information, visit the
Japan-America Student Conference website.

The JET Program

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs invites college graduates to live
in Japan for a one-year assignment as Assistant Language Teachers in
middle and secondary schools. The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program
(JET) requires no prior Japanese language experience. Participants in
this highly-regarded program are placed in localities throughout Japan
and provided with free room and board and a stipend. Applicants who
already speak Japanese with some fluency may also be assigned as
coordinators for International Relations, assisting local governments.

National Science Foundation Summer Programs in Japan and Korea

The U.S. National Science Foundation and Monbusho cooperate in a
variety of research, study and teaching exchange
opportunities. Support is available in all NSF areas, including
natural sciences, mathematics, social sciences and economics.

The North Carolina Japan Center has applications and descriptive
materials available, and maintains a cordial relationship with the NSF
programs. The NSF Tokyo Regional website maintains information on
funding opportunities for students and researchers.